De Aston rugby star proud to wear the rose of England

De Aston’s rugby superstar Zak Poole was in action over the Easter holidays after making it into the England U16 squad.

During the festival event, Zak played in matches against Wales and France.

“It was a long week which paid off because I got into the England B team,” said Zak.

“ I was relieved after all the hard work, and I feel honoured to wear a rose on my chest.

“I was buzzing when I found out.”

Zak was also given an extra England t-shirt, which he gifted to De Aston School in the year 11 assemble on his return.

“I am delighted to receive this generous gift on behalf of the school,” said headteacher Ellenor Beighton.

“It will be put on display and is an example of how aspirations can support achievement.”

As previously reported, 16-year-old Zak is ranked in the top 100 rugby players in the country for his age group.

And in February, it was announced he was one of only 15 under 16s from the East Midlands area to have been offered a two-year placement at the Leicester Tigers’ Academy , which he begins in July this year.

The talented teenager has played for Market Rasen and Louth RUFC since the U10s and is also a high-profile number 8 for the De Aston Team.

“Over 80 current De Aston pupils currently attend Market Rasen and Louth RUFC,” said De Aston’s head of PE Huw Williams.

“Players like Zak who show exceptional talent have access through the club to high quality coaching and facilities, in turn enabling them to access a higher level of play.

“The school and club currently have other pupils seeking to follow in Zak’s footsteps and we hope Zak will be the first of many success stories.”